Most motorcycle riders in Atlanta understand that riding a bike comes with risks. Motorcyclists are less protected than other drivers if an accident happens, and many motorists fail to account for motorcyclists’ rights on the road. If you were injured on your bike or a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, it’s time to speak with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer.
Our attorneys have been helping motorcycle accident victims win what they deserve for more than 20 years. We have seen the toll an accident can have on your finances, physical health, and overall well-being. Our firm is dedicated to getting you compensation for the damages that were not your fault.
Contact us today and we’ll get you started with a FREE consultation. We can go over the details of your case and discuss your best legal options. Call (404) 341-6555 or contact us online to get your FREE consultation today.
Motorcycle Accidents in Atlanta Are Often Deadly
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), there were 126 reported motorcycle accident deaths in Georgia in 2017. This was a decreased number from 170 the year before, but motorcycle accidents are still a huge concern.
Further data from the GHSA shows that motorcycle fatalities are more likely to involve:
- Male motorcyclists (although females rider deaths have recently increased);
- Single-vehicle crashes where the rider collides with a fixed object rather than another vehicle; and
- Weekend accidents (although weekday fatalities have increased).
Motorcyclists are also more at risk of accidents due to poor road conditions or inclement weather. A rider is more likely to be thrown from his or her vehicle after driving over an obstacle or coming across conditions like rain or ice.
Unless car drivers who are separated from outside while inside their vehicles, bikers are exposed to the open air and have little protecting them from other vehicles and the road. So, motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries like:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Road rash
- Lacerations
- Neck, shoulder, or back injuries
- Injuries that lead to death
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident that you did not cause, you should not have to bear the cost of your medical bills and other damages. The at-fault party in the accident should be held responsible. Under Georgia law, they are liable for all of your damages resulting from the accident.
The best way to get started seeking compensation is by talking to an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer. To get a FREE, no-risk consultation, call (404) 341-6555 or fill out one of our online forms today.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Happen
The sad truth is that many motorcycle accidents are preventable. If drivers would exercise more caution and diligence on Atlanta roads, there would be far fewer accidents. Unfortunately, not everyone is as careful as they should be after getting behind the wheel.
Motorcycle accidents can occur because of:
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Road rage or aggressive driving
- Poor road conditions
- Inclement weather
- Faulty vehicle parts
Even when a motorcycle accident does not directly involve another driver, a person or party may be responsible. For example, if an unsafe road condition causes a motorcyclist to be thrown from their bike or run off the road and hit a tree, the party responsible for road upkeep might be liable. This is often a local or state government entity.
If a motorcycle accident happens because of malfunctioning bike parts or poor maintenance, a manufacturer or mechanic may be to blame. Before making any assumptions about fault in your accident, it’s best to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer who can look at the facts. Even if you think you were fully responsible for the accident, you might discover otherwise after talking to a legal professional.
Determining Liability in an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident
To seek compensation for your damages, you will need to file a personal injury case against the at-fault party. To have a successful case, you’ll need to show:
- Who was responsible for the accident;
- How the at-fault party caused your accident; and
- Your total damages from the accident.
Even though you were the accident victim, legally, the burden is to you to prove the other party’s liability for the accident and your damages. This is very difficult to do alone, which is why we suggest working with an experienced and trusted attorney.
Thankfully, most motorcycle accident lawyers (like those at our firm) do not charge a fee unless they win you money. You can consult with them right away and not worry about the cost.
How You Can Seek Compensation for Your Damages
Common damages from a motorcycle accident in Atlanta include:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
Punitive Damages
In some situations, you may be eligible for punitive damages, which are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage further wrongdoing. These damages are more common in cases involving incredibly careless or wanton behavior, such as drunk driving. Your lawyer can let you know your full compensation options based on your accident.
Wrongful Death Damages
If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, you might be eligible to file a wrongful death claim on the deceased’s behalf. A wrongful death claim can include damages like:
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral costs
- Burial costs
- Loss of consortium or companionship
Talk to an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer right away to know your options. They can help you navigate this tragic time so that you can focus on being with loved ones—but worrying about the legal side of things.
Settlement Versus Trial
There are two ways you can seek compensation for motorcycle accident damages:
- Through the settlement of an insurance claim or
- Through an award at trial.
Most accident claims are settled well before the case ever goes to trial. If you have a powerful lawyer helping you with your claim, you have a much higher chance of getting a fair settlement and moving on from the accident. However, some situations do warrant filing a lawsuit, and your lawyer will help you every step of the way if that is necessary.
Get a Free Consultation with an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t wait to get help with your motorcycle accident claim. Our attorneys have more than 20 years of experience getting victims and their families the compensation they deserve. To learn more and get a FREE consultation, call us at (404) 341-6555 or contact us online today.
